That's what forums and sharing of info is for!
Well, that's great! It's certainly been a positive experience so far and, for my first major dive into automotive work, this community has been a gold mine.
I agree that the Moroso is expensive when it performs the same function as those that cost 1/10 the price. But, those cheaper options have been known to have sub-par components, such as carbon steel baffles and/or hardware on the inside that would quickly corrode. You can do some research and find "good" cheap ones. But, if your time is more valuable and you have no problem spending the money, you're guaranteed a quality part with that Moroso and it has a bracket and hoses designed specifically to fit your engine.
Right. I've been mulling a few over since our initial conversation and I don't mind paying for the convenience, peace of mind, and aesthetic appeal (I like the raw metal and bracket design) at this point. I was also intrigued by the J&L and ADDW1 models, but the Moroso can seems to check off the right boxes for me.
That's a considerable amount to burn and it burning more during that 500-mile trip kinda rules out that it's simply leaking out. With your engine having AFM deleted and it still burning that much oil- yes, you definitely need to make some changes. That updated cover and OCC should certainly be your first steps. I'd venture to recommend the upper engine soak just to be on the safe side.
Yes, it was a bit concerning, although having a better understanding of what's more than likely going on and what I can do about had me more comfortable than I was when I started this thread in July--having never performed an oil change and knowing nothing about catch cans or the PCV system issues with these vehicles.
I've already put another 300+ miles on since adding that 1/2 quart and it was still at proper level this morning--only lower by 1/16-1/32 of an inch if even that. I was driving in a hilly region and there was quite a bit of WOT acceleration (for various reasons) happening on the trip that costed an entire quart.
I did some quick research on the engine soak, but I'll have to take some more time and familiarize myself with that process. Replacing the valve cover will be my first major (not cosmetically oriented) project on this vehicle, and I imagine breaching that threshold will begin a new chapter in my automotive competency arc.
Absolutely! We like build/project threads. Even if yours isn't much of a build, it's still a great way to document and share your progress and results.
Thanks! I really don't have any dedicated plans for major modifications, albeit I am definitely open to performance upgrades in the face of stock component failure.
My focus since acquiring it has been to shore up some wear and tear, visual/style issues (subjective, I suppose), and a few slightly more involved repair aspects like the EVAP system and door actuators. Throughout the course of all this, some of my approaches may have been unique or on the rarer side of what others have done, so perhaps I'll be able to add something new if I catch the appropriate topic in circulation or post some 'throw-backs' at some point.
Underpinning those more superficial interests is a long term goal of mine to cultivate the tools, environment, and experience to perform more advanced mechanical repairs and maintenance--or at least to be capable of properly diagnosing issues rather than relying entirely on a mechanic.
Ultimately, this vehicle has been an initiatory milestone for me in becoming a more responsible and capable owner of a vehicle--one which I actually like and want to enjoy for as long as possible.
